A constantly stuffy nose , loss of smell, or repeated sinusitis can be signs of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps , known as nasal polyposis . This chronic inflammatory disease is common; It is estimated that in Portugal it affects about 2.5% of the population; It is more common between 40 and 60 years of age; It can significantly compromise quality of life. Despite all this, nasal polyposis is often referred to as an "invisible disease" because many people live with the symptoms for a long time without seeking the necessary medical care for a correct diagnosis and treatment. What is nasal polyposis? Nasal polyposis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nose and sinuses (rhinosinusitis), characterized by the growth of nasal polyps. These polyps are small benign formations that form as a result of persistent inflammation of the nasal mucosa and sinuses. They don't cause pain, but they can increase in size over time and cause progressive nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing through the nose, and changes in the sense of smell . What are the symptoms that may indicate nasal polyposis? The most frequent symptoms and signs include: Repeated and persistent nasal congestion; Frequent nasal discharge; Decreased or loss of sense of smell; Sensation of pressure or facial pain; Repeated sinusitis; Snoring or difficulty breathing during sleep. These and other symptoms are not always present and do not have the same intensity in all people with nasal polyposis. What is the impact on quality of life? Nasal polyposis is a disease with a real impact on quality of life. Loss of smell , which is one of the most characteristic symptoms, interferes with the pleasure of eating and also with safety and emotional well-being. Persistent nasal obstruction often interferes with sleep and can cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and a decrease in quality of life. This disease is frequently associated with other inflammatory conditions , such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, or intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid (commonly known as aspirin), which share similar inflammatory mechanisms. There are effective treatments for nasal polyposis. Although it is a chronic disease, there are several therapeutic options capable of controlling the symptoms of nasal polyposis and significantly improving quality of life. Treatment may include: Anti-inflammatory therapy with nasal sprays; Oral medication in selected cases; Endoscopic nasal surgery, when there is significant obstruction or drug treatments are ineffective; Biological therapies, indicated in more severe or recurrent cases. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation , improve the ability to breathe through the nose, and restore the sense of smell whenever possible. When are should you see a doctor? A constantly stuffy nose, loss of smell, frequent sinus infections, or other nasal symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily life, repeatedly or over months, may indicate nasal polyposis. In these cases, a detailed evaluation should be performed by an otolaryngologist to make a correct diagnosis and define the most appropriate treatment and follow-up for each case. The message is clear: If the nose stops functioning normally repeatedly and/or for a long time, the problem should not be ignored. It is necessary to seek the care of an otolaryngologist . Author: André de Sousa Machado (Otorhinolaryngology) Meet the otolaryngology team at the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
